Project Description
1.1
The Shatin
to Central Link (SCL) is strategically important for connecting the existing
railway lines into an integrated rail network. The SCL comprises 17 kilometres of rail line that will connect several existing
railway lines, creating two distinct east-west and north-south railway
corridors. It will also provide interchange opportunities with six of its ten
stations (Tai Wai, Diamond Hill, Homantin, Hung Hom, Exhibition and Admiralty).
1.2
The SCL would be include the
realignment for the existing East Rail Line Tracks from Mong
Kok East Station (MKK) to the new Hung Hom Station (HUH) (namely “SCL – Mong
Kok East to Hung Hom
Section” [SCL (MKK-HUH]) and the extension of the Ma on Shan Line from Tai Wai
Station to HUH (namely “SCL – Tai Wai to Hung Hom
Section” [SCL (TAW-HUH)]. It would
also cover the section from HUH across the harbour to
the Causeway Bay Typhoon Shelter (CBTS), Exhibition Station (EXH) and Admiralty
Station (ADM) [SCL (HUH – ADM)] (hereinafter referred to as “the Project”). An overview of the SCL alignment is
presented in Figure No. NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M50/001.
1.3
The Project comprises the following
key elements:
·
An approximately 6km extension of the East
Rail Line including a rail harbour crossing from Hung
Hom across the harbour to
Admiralty on Hong Kong Island;
·
A new Exhibition Station (EXH) located
near the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC);
·
An integrated Admiralty Station (ADM)
for the existing urban lines, the future SCL and South Island Line (East)
(SIL(E));
·
Ventilation buildings, vent shafts,
smoke extraction facilities and other associated works of the Project; and
·
Demolition of the existing Kowloon Freight Building
at south of HUH to facilitate the construction of the Project.
1.4
Apart from the above key
elements, barging facilities, supporting works areas and access roads will be
required to support the construction of the Project. Locations of the works areas for the
Project are illustrated in Figure Nos.
NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M50/021
to 025.
Appendix D provides
the tentative construction programme of the SCL (HUH-ADM).
It should be noted that the tentative construction programme
will be subject to actual site conditions.
Purpose of the Manual
1.5
The
purpose of this Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual is to
guide the set-up of an EM&A programme to check on
compliance with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study recommendations
of the Project, to assess the effectiveness of the recommended mitigation
measures, and to identify any further need for additional mitigation measures
or remedial actions.
1.6
This
EM&A Manual aims to
provide systematic procedures for monitoring, auditing and minimizing
environmental impacts associated with the activities of the Project. It
outlines the monitoring and audit programme for the
Project.
1.7
Hong Kong environmental
regulations have served as environmental standards and guidelines in the
preparation of this Manual. In
addition, the EM&A Manual has been prepared in accordance with the
requirements stipulated in Annex 21 of the Technical Memorandum on
Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM).
1.8
This
Manual contains the following information:
Ÿ
Responsibilities of
the Contractor, the Engineer or Engineer’s Representative (ER), the
Environmental Team (ET), and the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) with
respect to the environmental monitoring and audit requirements during the
course of the Project;
Ÿ Project organisation for the Project;
Ÿ Requirements with respect to the construction programme schedule and the
necessary environmental monitoring and audit programme to track the varying
environmental impact;
Ÿ Details of the methodologies to be adopted, including all field
laboratories and analytical procedures, and details on quality assurance and quality
control programme;
Ÿ The rationale on which the environmental monitoring data will be
evaluated and interpreted;
Ÿ Definition of Action and Limit levels;
Ÿ Establishment of Event and Action plans;
Ÿ Requirements for reviewing pollution sources and working procedures
required in the event of non-compliance with the environmental criteria and
complaints;
Ÿ Requirements for presentation of environmental monitoring and audit data
and appropriate reporting procedures; and
Ÿ Requirements for reviewing the EIA predictions and the effectiveness of
the mitigation measures / environmental management systems and the EM&A
programme.
1.9
This
EM&A Manual is a dynamic document that should be reviewed regularly and
updated as necessary during the construction and operation of the Project
including those updates noted in the EIA.
Project Organisation
1.10
The roles and
responsibilities of the various parties involved in the EM&A process and the organisational structure of the
organisations responsible for implementing the EM&A programme are outlined
below. The proposed project organisation and lines of communication with
respect to environmental protection works are shown in Figure No. NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/001.
Engineer or
Engineer’s Representative (ER)
1.11
The Engineer is responsible
for overseeing the construction works and for ensuring that the works are
undertaken by the Contractor in accordance with the specification and
contractual requirements. The duties and responsibilities of the Engineer with
respect to EM&A may include:
Ÿ Supervise the Contractor’s activities and ensure that the requirements
in the EM&A Manual are fully complied with;
Ÿ Inform the Contractor when action is required to reduce environmental
impacts in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;
Ÿ Participate in joint site inspections and audits undertaken by the ET;
and
Ÿ
Adhere to the
procedures for carrying out complaint investigations.
The Contractor
1.12
The Contractor should report to the ER. The duties and
responsibilities of the Contractor are:
Ÿ Implement the EIA recommendations and requirements;
Ÿ Provide assistance to the ET in carrying out relevant environmental
monitoring;
Ÿ Submit proposals on mitigation measures in case of exceedances
of Action and Limit
levels, in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;
Ÿ Implement measures to reduce environmental impacts where Action and
Limit levels are exceeded until the events are resolved; and
Ÿ
Adhere to the
procedures for carrying out environmental complaint investigation in accordance
with Section 13 of this Manual.
Environmental Team
(ET)
1.13
The ET should conduct the EM&A programme
and ensure the Contractor’s compliance with the Project’s environmental
performance requirements during construction. The ET should be an independent party
from the Contractor.
1.14
The ET should be led and managed by the ET leader. The ET leader should possess at least 7
years of experience in EM&A. The
ET should monitor the mitigation measures implemented by the Contractor on a
regular basis to ensure the compliance with the intended aims of the measures.
The duties and responsibilities of the ET are:
Ÿ Monitor the various environmental parameters as required in the EM&A
Manual;
Ÿ Carry out site inspections to investigate and audit the Contractor’s
site practice, equipment and work methodologies with respect to pollution
control and environmental mitigation, and anticipate environmental issues for
proactive and practicable action before problems arise;
Ÿ Analyse the EM&A data, review the success of EM&A programme to
confirm the adequacy of mitigation measures implemented and the validity of the
EIA predictions, and to identify any adverse environmental impacts arising and
report EM&A results to the IEC, and the ER;
Ÿ Liaison with IEC on all environmental performance matters, and timely
submission of all relevant EM&A proforma for
IEC's approval;
Ÿ Prepare reports on the environmental monitoring data and the site environmental
conditions;
Ÿ Review the proposals of remedial measure from the Contractor in the case
of exceedances of Action and Limit levels, in
accordance with the Event and Action Plans;
Ÿ Advice to the Contractor on environmental improvement, awareness,
enhancement matters, etc., on site;
Ÿ Timely submission of the EM&A report to the Project Proponent and
the EPD; and
Ÿ Adhere to the procedures for carrying out environmental complaint
investigation in accordance with Section
13 of this Manual.
Independent Environmental
Checker (IEC)
1.15
The IEC should advise the ER on environmental issues
related to the Project. The IEC should possess at least 7 years of experience
in EM&A. The duties and
responsibilities of the IEC are:
Ÿ Review and audit in
an independent, objective and professional manner in all aspects of the
EM&A programme;
Ÿ Validate and confirm the accuracy of monitoring results, monitoring
equipment, monitoring locations, monitoring procedures and locations of
sensitive receivers;
Ÿ Audit the EIA recommendations and requirements against the status of
implementation of environmental protection measures on site;
Ÿ Review the effectiveness of environmental mitigation measures and
project environmental performance;
Ÿ On as-needed basis, verify and certify the environmental acceptability
of the Environmental Permit (EP) holder’s construction methodology (both
temporary and permanent works), relevant design plans and submissions under the
EP;
Ÿ Carry out random sample check and audit on monitoring data and sampling
procedures, etc;
Ÿ Conduct random site inspection;
Ÿ Verify the investigation results of environmental complaint cases and
the effectiveness of corrective measures;
Ÿ Verify EM&A report that has been certified by the ET leader; and
Ÿ
Provide feedback on
the audit results to the ET or the EP holder according to Event and Action
Plans in the EM&A Manual.
1.16
Given that the
Project would involve in multiple contracts and would be constructed currently
with other projects such as CWB and WDII, an Environmental Protection Office
(ENPO) or equivalent to coordinate and oversee the cumulative construction
projects in the Study Area would be established in liaison with other parties.
Structure of
the EM&A Manual
1.17
Following this introductory
section, the remainder of the Manual is set out as follows:
Ÿ Section 2 – Details auditing requirement for cultural heritage;
Ÿ Section 3 – Details auditing requirement for ecology;
Ÿ Section 4 – Details auditing requirement for fisheries;
Ÿ Section 5 – Details auditing requirement for landscape and visual
impact;
Ÿ Section 6 – Sets out EM&A requirement for construction dust;
Ÿ Section 7 – Sets out EM&A requirement for airborne noise;
Ÿ Section 8 – Sets out EM&A requirement for ground-borne noise;
Ÿ Section 9 – Sets out EM&A requirement for water quality;
Ÿ Section 10 – Details auditing requirement for waste management;
Ÿ Section 11 – Details auditing requirement for land contamination;
Ÿ Section 12 – Details auditing requirement for hazard to life;
Ÿ Section 13 – Describes scope and frequency of environmental site audits
and sets out the general requirements of the EM&A programme;
Ÿ Section 14 – Details the EM&A reporting requirements; and
Introduction
2.1
Cultural
heritage resources within Study Area have been identified and reviewed through
site visits and literature review.
Given sufficient setback distance between Kellett
Island Site of Archaeological Interest and the Project works areas, and lack of
archaeological potential site identified within works areas, no adverse impact
on terrestrial archaeological remains is envisaged during construction phase.
Therefore, mitigation measures for terrestrial archaeology would not be needed.
2.2
Based
on the findings of literature review and previous Marine Archaeological
Investigation (MAI) studies, the seabed within proposed marine works area has
already been disturbed by past reclamation and regular dredging works, and thus
the marine archaeological potential within proposed marine works area is not
envisaged. The impact on marine archaeology is not anticipated.
2.3
Considering
sufficient buffer distances between built heritages and proposed works area,
there would be insignificant visual and vibration impact during construction
and operation phases provided that appropriate mitigation measures are
implemented.
Mitigation Measures
Construction Phase
Marine and
Terrestrial Archaeology
2.4
No
mitigation measures would be required during construction phase.
Built Heritage and
Historical Landscape
2.5
The
use of sensibly designed screen hoardings for mitigating landscape and visual
impacts as proposed in Section 7 of the EIA Report would also be recommended
for reducing the potential visual impact on identified heritage buildings to
acceptable levels. Details of the mitigation measures are presented in Appendix A.
2.6
The only declared monument/site of
cultural heritage within the assessment area, Flagstaff House, is located about
210m away from the nearest SCL tunnel. Given the considerable separation
distance, no adverse vibration impact on the declared monument/site of cultural
heritage is envisaged. Vibration
monitoring on other built heritages identified in the assessment will be agreed
with Antiquities and Monuments Office (AMO)/ Buildings Department (BD)/
Geotechnical Engineering Office (GEO) and implemented under the requirement of
the Buildings Ordinance and/or Blasting Permit as appropriate.
Operation Phase
Marine and
Terrestrial Archaeology
2.7
As
there would be no archaeological impact due to operation of the project, no
mitigation measures are required.
Built Heritage
and Cultural Landscape
2.8
With
sympathetic design incorporated in the permanent aboveground structures as
proposed in Section 7 of the EIA Report, no adverse visual impact is
anticipated. No further mitigation
measures would be required.
Audit Requirements
2.9
Audit
requirements for landscape and visual impacts as described in Section 5 of this Manual would as well
be applicable for the protection of heritage resources.
Introduction
3.1
The
ecological impact assessment conducted for this Study concluded that impacts
from the Project were mainly associated with the temporary loss of marine
habitats due to dredging and temporary reclamation works in the Victoria Harbour. In
terms of ecological importance, the assessment indicated that the affected
habitats were of low ecological importance and no significant adverse impact on
marine ecological resources would be expected to occur.
3.2
Indirect
impacts of change of water quality arising from the Project would be temporary
and transient in nature. With the implementation of
appropriate water quality mitigation measures, significant adverse indirect
impact on marine ecological resources is not anticipated.
Mitigation
Measures
3.3
Mitigation
measures for water quality control recommended in Section 11 of the EIA Report
shall also be recommended to minimize impact on marine ecology. Details of the mitigation measures are
presented in Appendix A.
Monitoring and Audit Requirements
3.4
No
specific ecological monitoring and auditing programme
is required. Monitoring and audit
requirements for water quality as detailed in Section 9 of this Manual would be applicable for the protection of
the marine ecological resources.
Introduction
5.1
The
EIA Report has recommended landscape and visual mitigation measures for the
construction and operation phases of the Project. This section defines the
audit requirements to confirm the recommended landscape and visual impact
mitigation measures are effectively implemented.
5.2
Site
audit on landscape and visual aspects of the Project should be carried out
during the construction phase.
Specific auditing during the operation phase of the Project is not
required, with the mitigation measures recommended in the EIA implemented.
Mitigation Measures
5.3
The
landscape and visual mitigation measures should be incorporated in the detailed
design. The construction phase and operation phase mitigation measures proposed
in the EIA Report are presented in Appendix A. Where feasible, the
construction phase mitigation measures should be implemented as early as
possible in order to minimize the landscape impacts in the construction stage
while the mitigation measures for the operation phase should be adopted during
the detailed design and be built as part of the construction works so that they
are in place on the date of commissioning of the Project.
5.4
Any
potential conflicts among the proposed mitigation measures, the Project works,
and operational requirements should also be identified and resolved as early as
practicable. Any
changes to the mitigation measures should be incorporated in the detailed
design.
Audit Requirements
5.5
Site
audits should be undertaken during the construction phase of the Project to
check that the proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures are properly
implemented and maintained as per their intended objectives. Site inspections should be undertaken by
the ET at least once every two weeks during the construction period.
6.
Construction Dust
Introduction
6.1
Potential
air quality impact arising from the construction works would mainly be related
to construction dust from excavation, materials handling, spoil removal,
temporary stockpiles and wind erosion, as well as operation barging
facilities. As construction dust is
the prime concern, monitoring should be carried out to evaluate the dust impact
during the construction phase. Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) monitoring and site audits are recommended to
confirm that the recommended mitigation measures are properly implemented.
6.2
In
this section, the requirements, methodology, equipments, monitoring locations
and criteria for the monitoring and audit of construction dust impact during
the construction phase of the Project are presented.
Monitoring
Parameters and Equipment
6.3
The
TSP levels should be measured by following the standard method as set out in
High Volume Method for Total Suspended Particulates, Part 50 Chapter 1 Appendix
B, Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations of the USEPA (hereinafter
referred to as “HVS method”).
6.4
Dust
laden with air should be drawn through a high volume sampler (HVS) fitted with
a conditioned, pre-weighed filter paper, at a controlled rate. After sampling, the filter paper with
retained particles is collected and returned to the laboratory for drying in a desiccator followed by accurate weighing. TSP levels are calculated from the ratio
of the mass of particulates retained on the filter paper to the total volume of
air sampled.
6.5
All
relevant data including temperature, pressure, weather conditions, elapsed-time
meter reading for the start and stop of sampler, identification and weight of
the filter paper, and other special phenomena and work progress of the
concerned site, etc, should be recorded down in detail. A sample data sheet is shown in Appendix B1.
6.6
High
volume sampler (HVS) in compliance with the following specifications should be
used for carrying out the 1-hour and 24-hour monitoring:
(i)
0.6 - 1.7 m3 per minute (20 -
60 standard cubic feet per minute) adjustable flow range;
(ii)
equipped with a timing / control device
with ± 5 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
(iii) installed with elapsed-time meter with ± 2 minutes accuracy
for 24 hours operation;
(iv) capable of providing a minimum exposed area of 406 cm2
(63 in2);
(v) flow control accuracy:
± 2.5% deviation over 24-hour sampling period;
(vi) incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate controller or
other equivalent devices;
(vii) equipped with a shelter to protect the filter and sampler;
(viii) equipped with a flow recorder for continuous monitoring;
(ix) provided with a peaked roof inlet;
(x) incorporated with a manometer;
(xi) able to hold and seal the filter paper to the sampler
housing at horizontal position;
(xii) easy to change the filter; and
(xiii) capable
of operating continuously for 24-hour period.
6.7
The
ET is responsible for the provision of the monitoring equipment and should
provide sufficient number of HVS or direct reading dust meter with appropriate
calibration kit for carrying out the baseline, regular impacts monitoring and
ad-hoc monitoring. The HVSs should
be equipped with an electronic mass flow controller and be calibrated against a
traceable standard at regular intervals, in accordance with requirements stated
in the manufacturers operating manual and as described below. All the equipment, calibration kit,
filter papers, etc, should be clearly labelled.
If direct reading dust meters is proposed to be used, the ET Leader should
submit sufficient information to the IEC to prove that the instrument is
capable of achieving a comparable result as that the
HVS and may be used for the 1-hour sampling. The instrument should also be calibrated
regularly.
6.8
Initial
calibration of HVSs with mass flow controller should be conducted upon
installation and thereafter every six months. The transfer standard shall be
traceable to the internationally recognized primary standard and be calibrated
annually. The calibration data should be properly documented for future
reference by the IEC.
6.9
The
flow-rate of the sampler before and after the sampling exercise with the filter
in position should be verified to be constant and be recorded on the data sheet
as shown in Appendix B1.
6.10
If
the ET Leader proposes to use a direct reading dust meter to measure 1-hr TSP
levels, he shall submit sufficient information to the IEC to prove that the
instrument is capable of achieving a comparable result as
that the HVS and may be used for the 1-hr sampling. The instrument shall also
be calibrated regularly, and the 1-hr sampling shall be determined periodically
by HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the results measured by direct
reading method.
6.11
Wind
data monitoring equipment shall also be provided and set up at conspicuous
locations for logging wind speed and wind direction near to the dust monitoring
locations. The equipment installation location shall be proposed by the ET
Leader and agreed with the ER in consultation with the IEC. For installation
and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following points shall be
observed:
a)
the wind sensors shall be installed on
masts at an elevated level 10m above ground so that they are clear of
obstructions or turbulence caused by the buildings;
b)
the wind data shall be captured by a data logger. The data
recorded in the data logger shall be downloaded periodically for analysis
at least once a month;
c)
the wind data monitoring equipment shall
be re-calibrated at least once every six months; and
d)
wind direction
shall be divided into 16 sectors of 22.5 degrees each.
6.12
If
the ET Leader proposes alternative dust monitoring equipment / methodology
(e.g. direct reading methods) after the approval of this Manual, agreement from
the IEC should be sought. The instrument should also be calibrated regularly
following the requirements specified by the equipment manufacturers.
Laboratory Measurement / Analysis
6.13
A
clean laboratory with constant temperature and humidity control, and equipped
with necessary measuring and conditioning instruments, to handle the dust
samples collected, shall be available for sample analysis, and equipment
calibration and maintenance. The laboratory shall be HOKLAS accredited or other
internationally accredited laboratory.
6.14
If
a site laboratory is set up or a non-HOKLAS accredited laboratory is hired for carrying
out the laboratory analysis, the laboratory equipment shall be approved by the
ER in consultation with the IEC. Measurement performed by the laboratory shall
be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the ER and the IEC. IEC shall conduct
regular audit to the measurement performed by the laboratory to ensure the
accuracy of measurement results. The ET Leader shall provide the ER with one
copy of the Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B for his reference.
6.15
Filter
paper of size 8"x10" shall be labelled
before sampling. It shall be a clean filter paper with no pin holes, and shall
be conditioned in a humidity controlled chamber for over 24-hr and be
pre-weighed before use for the sampling.
6.16
After
sampling, the filter paper loaded with dust shall be kept in a clean and
tightly sealed plastic bag. The filter paper is then returned to the laboratory
for reconditioning in the humidity controlled chamber followed by accurate
weighing by an electronic balance with a readout down
to 0.1 mg. The balance shall be regularly calibrated against a traceable
standard.
6.17
All the collected samples shall be kept
in a good condition for 6 months before disposal.
Dust
Monitoring Stations
6.18
The worst potentially affected locations in the vicinity
of the construction activities of the Project identified for dust monitoring
are listed in Table 6.1
and shown in Figure Nos. NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/010
– NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/011.
Table 6.1 Proposed
Dust Monitoring Stations
|
Identification No.
|
Air Sensitive Receiver (ASR)
ID in EIA Report
|
Dust Monitoring
Station
|
|
AM1
|
HHA9
|
Harbourfront Horizon (1)
|
|
AM2
|
EXA6
|
Wanchai Sports Ground
|
|
AM3
|
EXA5
|
Existing Harbour Road Sports Centre (would be demolished in 2015)
|
|
AM4
|
EXA4
|
Pedestrian Plaza
|
Note:
(1) The
set up of the dust monitoring station at Harbourfront
Horizon and the monitoring would be carried out by Kwun
Tong Line Extension project or Shatin to Central Link
– Mong Kok East to Hung Hom Section [SCL (MKK-HUH)]. Upon termination of their
EM&A programmes, the monitoring works would be taken up by this Project.
6.19
The
status and locations of air quality sensitive receivers may change after this
Manual is issued. In such case, the ET should propose alternative monitoring
stations and seek agreement from the IEC and EPD.
6.20
When
alternative monitoring locations are proposed, the monitoring stations should
be chosen based on the following criteria:
(i)
Monitoring at ASRs close to the major
site activities which are likely to have air quality impacts;
(ii) Monitoring as close as possible to the ASRs as defined in
the EIAO-TM; and
(iii) Assurance of minimal disturbance to the occupants and
working under a safe condition during monitoring.
6.21
When
positioning the HVSs, the following points should be noted:
(i)
A horizontal platform with appropriate support
to secure the samplers against gusty wind should be provided;
(ii) Two samplers should not be placed less than 2m apart;
(iii) the distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as
buildings, must be at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above
the sampler;
(iv) a minimum of 2m separation from walls, parapets and
penthouses is required for rooftops samplers;
(v) a minimum of 2m separation from any supporting structure,
measures horizontally is required;
(vi) no furnace or incinerator flue is located nearby the
samplers;
(vii) airflow around the sampler is unrestricted;
(viii) the sampler is more than 20m from the dripline;
(ix) any wire fence and gate to protect the sampler, should not
cause any obstruction during monitoring;
(x) permission must be obtained to set up the samplers and to
obtain access to the monitoring stations; and
(xi) a
secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers.
6.22
In
case the baseline monitoring cannot be carried out at the designated monitoring
locations during the baseline monitoring period, the ET Leader shall carry out
the monitoring at alternative locations which can effectively represent the
baseline conditions at the impact monitoring locations. The alternative
baseline monitoring locations shall be approved by the ER and agreed with the
IEC.
6.23
In
exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable
results are obtained, the ET Leader shall liaise with the IEC and EPD to agree
on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to ER
for approval.
Baseline Monitoring
6.24
Baseline
monitoring should be carried out to determine the ambient 1-hour and 24‑hour
TSP levels at the monitoring locations prior to the commencement of the Project
works. Before commencing the baseline monitoring, the ET should inform the IEC
of the baseline monitoring programme such that the
IEC can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the baseline monitoring
results.
6.25
TSP
baseline monitoring should be carried out for a continuous period of at least
two weeks with the 24-hour and three sets of 1-hour ambient measurements taken
daily at each monitoring station.
During the baseline monitoring, there should not be any construction or
dust generating activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations. General
meteorological conditions (wind speed, direction and precipitation) and notes
regarding any significant adjacent dust producing sources should also be
recorded throughout the baseline monitoring period. A summary of baseline monitoring is
presented in Table 6.2.
6.26
The
baseline monitoring will provide data for the determination of the appropriate
Action levels whilst the Limit levels will be set against statutory or
otherwise agreed limits.
6.27
If
the ET Leader considers that significant changes in the ambient conditions have
arisen, a repeat of the baseline monitoring may be carried out to update the
baseline levels and air quality criteria, after consultation and agreement with
the ER, the IEC and the EPD.
Impact Monitoring
6.28
The
monthly schedule of the compliance and impact monitoring programme
should be drawn up by the ET one month prior to the commencement of the
scheduled construction period.
6.29
For
the regular 24-hour TSP impact monitoring, a sampling frequency of at least
once in every six days should be strictly observed at the monitoring stations when there are Project-related construction activities
being undertaken within a radius of 500m from these monitoring stations. The specific time
to start and stop the 24-hr TSP monitoring shall be clearly defined for each
location and be strictly followed by the field operator. In case of complaints,
1-hour TSP monitoring should be conducted when the highest dust impacts are
likely to occur. The impact monitoring
programme is summarised in Table 6.2.
Table 6.2 Summary
of Construction Dust Monitoring Programme
|
Monitoring Period
|
Duration
|
Sampling Parameter
|
Frequency
|
|
Baseline Monitoring
|
Consecutive days of at least 2 weeks before
commencement of major construction works
|
1 hour TSP
|
3 times per day
|
|
24-hour TSP
|
Daily
|
|
Impact Monitoring
|
Throughout the construction phase*
|
1 hour TSP#
|
3 times in every 6 days when
documented and valid complaints was received
|
|
24-hour TSP*
|
Once in every 6 days
|
Notes:
* Impact monitoring should be
conducted at the monitoring stations for 24-hour TSP monitoring when there are Project-related construction activities
being undertaken within a radius of 500m from these monitoring stations.
# Based
on the EM&A results of other similar projects, 1-hour TSP would not be a
concern. 1-hour TSP monitoring should therefore be conducted only when
documented and valid complaint was received.
6.30
Before
commencement of the monitoring, the ET should inform the IEC of the impact
monitoring programme such that the IEC can conduct an
on-site audit to ensure the accuracy of the impact monitoring results.
Compliance Assessment
6.31
Action
and Limit (A/L) levels that provide an appropriate framework for the
interpretation of monitoring results.
The air quality monitoring data should be checked against the
recommended A/L levels as listed in Table 6.3.
Table 6.3 Proposed
Action and Limit Levels for Impact Monitoring
|
Parameter
|
Action Level (1)
|
Limit Level
|
|
24-hours TSP
|
·
For BL £ 200μg m-3, AL = (BL * 1.3 + LL)/2
·
For BL > 200μg m-3, AL = LL
|
260 μg m-3
|
|
1-hour TSP
|
·
For BL £ 384μg m-3, AL = (BL * 1.3 + LL)/2
|
500μg m-3
|
Note:
(1) BL
= Baseline level, AL
= Action level, LL = Limit level.
Event
and Action Plan
6.32
The
Event and Action Plan prescribes procedures and actions associated with the
outcome of the comparison of air quality monitoring data recorded and the
agreed A/L levels. In the cases
where exceedances of these A/L levels occurs, the ET,
the IEC, the ER and the Contractor should strictly observe the relevant actions
of the respective Event and Action Plan listed in Table 6.4.
Table 6.4 Event
and Action Plan for Construction Dust Monitoring
|
EVENT
|
ACTION
|
|
ET
|
IEC
|
ER
|
CONTRACTOR
|
|
ACTION LEVEL
|
|
1. Exceedance
for one sample
|
1. Inform the Contractor, IEC and ER;
2. Discuss with the Contractor on the remedial measures
required;
3. Repeat measurement to confirm findings; and
4. Increase monitoring frequency.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by the ET;
2. Check Contractor’s working method; and
3. Review and advise the ET and ER on the effectiveness
of the proposed remedial measures.
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;.
|
1. Identify source(s), investigate the
causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;
2.
Implement remedial measures; and
3. Amend working methods agreed with the
ER as appropriate.
|
|
2. Exceedance
for two or more consecutive samples
|
1. Inform the Contractor, IEC and ER;
2. Discuss with the ER and Contractor on the remedial
measures required;
3. Repeat measurements to confirm findings;
4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily;
5. If exceedance continues,
arrange meeting with the IEC, ER and Contractor; and
6. If exceedance stops, cease
additional monitoring.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by the ET;
2. Check Contractor’s working method; and
3. Review and advise the ET and ER on the effectiveness
of the proposed remedial measures.
|
1. Confirm
receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;
1. Review and agree on the remedial measures proposed
by the Contractor; and
2. Supervise Implementation of remedial measures.
|
1. Identify source and investigate the
causes of exceedance;
2. Submit proposals for remedial measures
to the ER with a copy to ET and IEC within three working days of
notification;
3. Implement the agreed proposals; and
4. Amend proposal as appropriate.
|
|
LIMIT LEVEL
|
|
1. Exceedance
for one sample
|
1. Inform the Contractor, IEC, EPD and ER;
2. Repeat measurement to confirm findings;
3. Increase monitoring frequency to daily;
and
4. Discuss with the ER, IEC and contractor
on the remedial measures and assess the effectiveness.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by the ET;
2. Check the Contractor’s working method;
3. Discuss with the ET, ER and Contractor on possible
remedial measures; and
4. Review and advise the ER and ET on the effectiveness
of Contractor’s remedial measures. .
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;
2. Review and agree on the remedial measures proposed
by the Contractor; and
3. Supervise implementation of remedial measures.
|
1. Identify source(s) and investigate the causes of exceedance;
2. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance;
3. Submit proposals for remedial measures to ER with a
copy to ET and IEC within three working days of notification;
4. Implement the agreed proposals; and
5. Amend proposal if appropriate.
|
|
2. Exceedance for two
or more consecutive samples
|
1. Notify Contractor, IEC, EPD and ER;
2. Repeat measurement to confirm findings;
3. Increase monitoring frequency to daily;
4. Carry out analysis of the Contractor’s working
procedures with the ER to determine possible mitigation to be implemented;
5. Arrange meeting with the IEC and ER to discuss the
remedial measures to be taken;
6. Review the effectiveness of the Contractor’s
remedial measures and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results; and
7. If exceedance stops, cease
additional monitoring.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by the ET;
2. Check the Contractor’s working method;
3. Discuss with ET, ER, and Contractor on the potential
remedial measures; and
4. Review and advise the ER and ET on the effectiveness
of Contractor’s remedial measures.
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;
2. In consultation with the ET and IEC, agree with the
Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented;
3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures;
and
4. If exceedance continues,
consider what portion of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor
to stop that portion of work until the exceedance
is abated.
|
1. Identify source(s) and investigate the
causes of exceedance;
2. Take immediate action to avoid further
exceedance;
3. Submit proposals for remedial measures
to the ER with a copy to the IEC and ET within three working days of notification;
4. Implement the agreed proposals;
5. Revise and resubmit proposals if
problem still not under control; and
6. Stop the relevant portion of works as
determined by the ER until the exceedance is
abated.
|
Mitigation Measures
6.33
Site-specific
dust mitigation measures recommended in the EIA Report include
watering on active works areas, exposed areas and paved haul roads, enclosing
the unloading process at barging point, good site practices and dust
suppression measures stipulated in Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust)
Regulation. Details of the mitigation measures are presented in Appendix A.
Introduction
7.1
In this section, the
requirements, methodology, equipment, monitoring locations, and protocols for
the monitoring and audit of airborne noise impacts during the construction and
operation phases of the Project are presented.
Construction Noise
Noise Parameters
7.2
The construction noise level should be measured in terms of the
A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq). Leq
(30 min) should be used as the monitoring parameter for the time period between
0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays.
7.3
Supplementary information for data auditing and statistical results such
as L10 and L90 should also be obtained for
reference. A sample data record
sheet is shown in Appendix B2 for
reference.
Monitoring Equipment and Methodology
7.4
As referred to the requirements of the Technical Memorandum (TM) issued
under the NCO, sound level meters in compliance with the International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651: 1979 (Type 1)
and 804: 1985 (Type 1) specifications should be used for carrying out the noise
monitoring. Immediately prior to
and following each noise measurement the accuracy of the sound level meter
should be checked using an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound
pressure level at a known frequency.
Measurements may be accepted as valid only if the difference between
calibration levels obtained before and after the noise measurement is less than
1.0 dB.
7.5
Noise measurements should not be made in the presence of fog, rain, wind
with a steady speed exceeding 5ms-1 or wind with gusts exceeding
10ms-1. The wind speed should be checked with a portable wind speed
meter capable of measuring wind speeds in ms-1.
7.6
The ET is responsible for the provision of the monitoring equipment and
should ensure that sufficient noise measuring equipment and associated
instrumentation are available for carrying out the baseline monitoring, regular
impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring.
All the equipment and associated instrumentation should be clearly
labelled.
Noise Monitoring Stations
7.7
In accordance with the EIA Report, the designated locations for
construction noise monitoring are listed in Table 7.1
and shown in Figure
No. NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/020.
Table 7.1 Noise Monitoring
Stations during Construction Phase
|
Identification No.
|
Noise Sensitive Receiver (NSR) ID in EIA Report
|
Noise Monitoring Station
|
|
NM1
|
CH2
|
Hoi Kung Court
|
|
NM2
|
EX1
|
Causeway Centre,
Block A
|
7.8
The status and location of noise sensitive receivers (NSRs) may change
after approval of this Manual. In such
case, and if changes to the monitoring locations are considered necessary, the
ET should propose alternative monitoring stations and seek approval from the ER
and agreement from the IEC and EPD on the proposal. If alternative monitoring stations are proposed,
these stations should be chosen based on the following criteria:
Ÿ
Monitoring at NSRs close to the major
site activities of the Project that are likely to arise noise impacts;
Ÿ
Monitoring as close as possible to the
NSRs as defined in the EIAO-TM; and
Ÿ
Assurance of minimal disturbance to
the occupants and working under a safe condition during monitoring.
7.9
The monitoring station should normally be at a point 1m from the exterior of the noise
sensitive facade and be at a position 1.2m
above ground. If there is a problem
with access to the normal monitoring position, an alternative position should
be chosen, and a correction to the measurement results should be made. For reference, a correction of +3dB(A) should be made to free-field measurements. The ET should agree with the IEC on the
monitoring position and the corrections adopted. Once the positions for the monitoring
stations are chosen, the baseline monitoring and the impact monitoring should
be carried out at the same positions. If changes to the monitoring stations are
required upon commencing the baseline monitoring or thereafter, the ET should
proposed alternative locations based on the above-mentioned criteria and seek
approval from the ER and agreement from the IEC and EPD on the proposal.
Baseline Monitoring
7.10
The ET should carry out baseline noise monitoring prior to the
commencement of the construction works. The baseline noise levels should
be measured for a continuous period of at least 14 consecutive days at a
minimum logging interval of 30 minutes for daytime (between 0700 and 1900 hours
of normal weekdays) and 15 minutes (as three consecutive Leq,
(5 minutes) readings) for evening time (between 1900 and 2300 hours on
normal weekdays), general holidays including Sundays (between 0700 and 2300
hours) and night-time (between 2300 and 0700 on all days). The Leq, L10 and L90 should be
recorded at the specified interval. Before commencing the baseline
monitoring, the ET Leader should inform the IEC of the baseline monitoring programme such that the IEC can conduct on-site audit to
ensure accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.
7.11
There should not be any construction activities in the vicinity of the
monitoring stations during the baseline monitoring. Any non-project
related construction activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations
during the baseline monitoring should be noted and the source and location of
such activities should be recorded.
7.12
In exceptional cases, when baseline monitoring data obtained are
insufficient or questionable, the ET Leader should liaise with the IEC and EPD
to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as the baseline reference.
Impact Monitoring
7.13
Noise monitoring should be carried out at all the designated monitoring
stations when there are Project-related construction activities being
undertaken within a radius of 300m from the monitoring stations. The
monitoring frequency should depend on the scale of the construction
activities. An initial guide on the monitoring is to obtain one set of
30-minute measurement at each station between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal
weekdays at a frequency of once a week when construction activities are
underway.
7.14
If a school is located near the construction activities, noise monitoring
should be carried out at the monitoring stations for the school during school
examination periods. The ET Leader should liaise with the school administration
and the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority to ascertain the exact
dates and times of all examinations during the construction phase of the
Project.
7.15
In the case of non-compliance with the construction noise criteria, more
frequent monitoring, as specified in Event and Action Plan in Table 7.3, should be carried
out. This additional monitoring should be continued until the recorded
noise levels show that the non-compliance is rectified or proved to be
irrelevant to the Project-related construction activities.
Event and Action Plan
7.16
The
Action and Limit levels for construction noise are defined in Table 7.2.
Should non-compliance of the noise quality criteria occur
actions in accordance with the Event and Action Plan in Table 7.3 should be taken.
Table
7.2 Action and Limit Levels for
Construction Noise Impact Monitoring
|
Time Period
|
Action Level
|
Limit Level
|
|
0700-1900 hours on normal weekdays
|
When one documented complaint is received
|
75 dB(A) for residential premises
|
|
70 dB(A) for schools and
65 dB(A) during examination period
|
7.17
To
account for cases in which ambient noise levels, as identified by baseline
monitoring, approach or exceed the stipulated Limit Levels prior to the
commencement of construction, a Maximum Acceptable Impact Level, which
incorporates the baseline noise levels and the identified construction noise
Limit Level, may be defined and agreed with the EPD. The amended level will be
greater than 75 dB(A) and will represent the maximum
acceptable noise level at a specific monitoring station. Correction factors for
the effects of acoustic screening and/or architectural features of NSRs may
also be applied as specified in the Technical Memorandum on Noise from
Construction Work other than Percussive Piling (GW-TM).
Table
7.3 Event and Action Plan for
Construction Noise Monitoring
|
EVENT
|
ACTION
|
|
ET
|
IEC
|
ER
|
CONTRACTOR
|
|
Action Level
|
1.
Notify the
Contractor, IEC and ER;
2.
Discuss with the ER
and Contractor on the remedial measures required; and
3.
Increase monitoring
frequency to check mitigation effectiveness.
|
1.
Review the
investigation results submitted by the Contractor; and
2.
Review and advise
the ET and ER on the effectiveness of the remedial measures proposed by the
Contractor.
|
1.
Confirm receipt of
notification of complaint in writing;
2.
Review and agree on
the remedial measures proposed by the Contractor; and
3.
Supervise
implementation of remedial measures.
|
1.
Investigate the
complaint and propose remedial measures;
2.
Report the results of
investigation to the IEC, ET and ER;
3.
Submit noise
mitigation proposals to the ER with copy to the IEC and ET within three working days of
notification; and
4.
Implement noise
mitigation proposals.
|
|
Limit Level
|
1.Notify the Contractor, IEC, EPD and ER;
2.Repeat measurement to confirm findings;
3.Increase monitoring frequency;
4.Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine
possible mitigation to be implemented;
5.Arrange meeting with the IEC and ER to discuss the remedial measures
to be taken;
6.Review the effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial measures and keep
IEC, EPD and ER informed of
the results; and
7.If exceedance stops, cease
additional monitoring.
|
1.Check monitoring data submitted by the ET;
2. Check the Contractor’s working method;
3. Discuss with the ER, ET and Contractor
on the potential remedial measures; and
4. Review and advise the ET and ER on the effectiveness
of the remedial measures proposed by the Contractor.
|
1.
Confirm receipt of
notification of failure in writing;
2.
In consultation
with the ET and IEC, agree with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be
implemented;
3.
Supervise the
implementation of remedial measures; and
4.
If exceedance continues, consider what portion of the work
is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that portion of work until
the exceedance is abated.
|
1.
Identify source and
investigate the causes of exceedance;
2.
Take immediate
action to avoid further exceedance;
3.
Submit proposals
for remedial measures to the ER with copy to the IEC and ET within three working days of
notification;
4.
Implement the
agreed proposals;
5.
Revise and resubmit
proposals if problem still not under control; and
6.
Stop the relevant
portion of works as determined by the ER until the exceedance
is abated.
|
Operation
Noise – Fixed Plant
7.18
The
maximum permissible sound power levels of the identified fixed noise sources of
the Project were predicted in the EIA Report. To ensure that the noise impact
associated with the fixed plant operations would comply with the noise
standards stipulated in the EIAO-TM and Noise Control Ordinance (NCO), the
specified sound power levels should be implemented and refined by the Contractor
as appropriate.
7.19
No specific monitoring for the fixed
plant operation is deemed necessary.
Mitigation
Measures
Construction Phase
7.20
The
EIA Report indicates that construction activities would cause airborne noise exceedances at a few NSRs, and therefore, appropriate noise
mitigation measures and good site practices are recommended. The Contractor
should be responsible for the design and implementation of these measures. The
implementation schedule for the recommended mitigation measures is presented in
Appendix A.
7.21
In
the event of exceedances or complaints, the
Contractor should review the effectiveness of these mitigation measures and
propose, design and implement alternative or additional measures as
appropriate. The Contractor should
liaise with the ET on alternative or additional remedial measures, if
appropriate, and the proposal of the measures should be submitted to the ER for
approval. The Contractor should implement
the agreed remedial measures properly.
Operation Phase
7.22
The
mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA Report for the fixed plant noise
arising from the operation of the Project is presented in Appendix A. These measures should be reviewed and
refined by the ER and ET if there are any major design
changes during the detailed design phase such that the recommended measures are
adequate for alleviating the potential operation noise impacts.
Introduction
8.1
In this section, the requirements for the monitoring
and audit of ground-borne noise impacts during the construction and operation
phases of the Project are presented.
Construction Ground-borne Noise
8.2
In accordance with the EIA Report, the
predicted construction ground-borne noise level at the identified ground-borne
NSR would comply with the noise criteria.
Adverse ground-borne construction noise impact due to the Project would
not be envisaged. Ground-borne noise monitoring is thus
considered not necessary during construction phase.
Operation Ground-borne Noise
8.3
A noise commissioning test should be conducted by the ET
prior to the operation phase of the Project to confirm the compliance of the
operational ground-borne noise levels
with the NCO noise criteria.
Testing Parameter and Criteria
8.4
The train operation ground-borne noise level should be
measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level
(Leq). Leq(30 min) should be used as the
monitoring parameter.
8.5
With reference to the Technical
Memorandum for the Assessment of Noise from Places Other Than Domestic
Premises, Public Places or Construction Sites (IND-TM), the criteria for noise
transmitted primarily through the structural elements of the building or
buildings should be 10dB(A) less than the relevant acceptable acceptable
noise level (ANL). The criteria for ground-borne rail noise assessment are given in Table 8.1.
Table 8.1 Operation
Ground-borne Noise Criteria
Type
of NSR / Assessment Point
|
Ground-borne
Noise Criteria, (Leq
30 min,
dB(A))
|
|
Day &
Evening
(0700 to 2300 hrs)
|
Night
(2300 to 0700 hrs)
|
|
Domestic premises, hotels and service
apartments
|
55
|
45
|
|
Schools
|
55
|
[a]
|
Note:
[a]
No sensitive use/activity during this period.
Monitoring Equipment and Methodology
8.6
In accordance with the requirements of the Technical
Memorandum (TM) issued under the NCO, sound level meters in compliance with the
International Electrotechnical Commission
Publications 651: 1979 (Type 1) and 804: 1985 (Type 1) specifications should be
used for carrying out the noise monitoring. Immediately prior to and following each
noise measurement the accuracy of the sound level meter should be checked using
an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound pressure level at a known
frequency. Measurements may be
accepted as valid only if the difference between the calibration levels
obtained before and after the noise measurement agree to within 1.0 dB.
8.7
Existing
Leq(30min)
levels should be monitored at the monitoring stations without trains running to
obtain the ambient noise levels.
After the train noise levels are measured (if measured directly), these
ambient levels should be deducted from the measured Leq(30min)
levels to obtain the operational noise levels in the absence of ambient noise.
Monitoring Locations
8.8
The noise commissioning test should be
performed once prior to the operation of the Project at key noise sensitive
receivers (NSRs) listed in Table
8.2 and shown in
Figure
No. NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/021.
Table 8.2 Operational
Ground-borne Noise Monitoring Stations
|
Identification No.
|
NSR ID
in EIA Report
|
Description
|
Land Use
|
|
GOM1
|
CH2
|
Hoi
Kung Court
|
Residential
|
|
GOM2
|
EX4
|
HKAPA
[a]
|
Educational
|
|
GOM3
|
AD4
|
Island
Shangri-La Hotel
|
Hotel
|
Note:
[a] HKAPA
is currently used as performing arts centre and provides professional education,
training and research facilities in the performing arts, theatre and
entertainment arts, film and television. With a similar nature of education,
tutoring, communication and rehearsal in both performing
arts centre and education institution, a criterion for educational use is
considered appropriate for HKAPA.
8.9
The status and location of noise sensitive receivers may change after
this Manual is issued. In such
event, and if changes to the monitoring locations are considered necessary, the
ET should discuss with the ER and IEC to propose alternative monitoring
locations and seek approval from the ER and agreement from the IEC on the
proposal. When alternative
monitoring stations are proposed, the monitoring stations should be chosen
based on the following criteria:
·
Monitoring within the
NSRs close to the alignment; and
·
Avoiding disturbance to
the occupants during monitoring within the NSRs.
8.10
The
monitoring stations should be at the lowest sensitive floor of each designated
monitoring location and normally be at a position 1.2m above ground inside the building structures. If there is a problem with access to the
normal monitoring position, an alternative position should be chosen, and a
correction to the measurement results should be made. The ET should agree with the IEC on the
monitoring position and the corrections adopted. Once the positions for the monitoring
stations are chosen, the baseline and the impact monitoring shall be carried
out at the same position. If changes to the monitoring stations are required
upon commencing the baseline monitoring or thereafter, the ET should propose
alternative locations based on the above-mentioned criteria and seek approval
from the ER and agreement from the IEC and EPD on the proposal.
Mitigation
Measures
Construction Phase
8.11
The predicted construction
ground-borne noise levels at all representative NSRs would be within the noise
criteria. No mitigation measure is therefore required.
Operation Phase
8.12
With direct fixation track, the predicted
ground-borne noise levels at all representative NSRs would comply with the
noise criteria. Mitigation measures are therefore not required.
Water Quality Parameters
9.1
As identified in the EIA Report, the
key water quality impacts caused by the Project would be associated with the
dredging works during the construction phase. The EIA Report has identified that
suspended sediment is the most critical water quality parameter caused by the
dredging works. Marine water
quality monitoring should be carried out during the dredging and filling
operation to ensure that any unacceptable increase in suspended solids /
turbidity and decrease in dissolved oxygen due to the dredging activities or
temporary reclamation works could readily detected and timely action be taken
to rectify the situation. As
presented in the EIA Report, adverse impacts associated with the potential
release of contaminants (such as heavy metals) from the marine mud during
dredging activities is not expected. As such, no monitoring programme
specific for contaminant release is considered necessary.
9.2
Dissolved Oxygen (DO), turbidity and
Suspended Solids (SS) levels should be monitored at designated marine water
quality monitoring stations during the construction phase. DO and turbidity should be measured in
situ whereas SS should be determined by laboratory.
9.3
Adverse water quality impacts
associated with the operation of the Project are not expected, in accordance
with the EIA Report. Thus, no operational
monitoring and audit programme specific for water
quality is required.
Monitoring
Equipment
pH Measurement Instrument
9.4
The instrument should consist of a
potentiometer, a glass electrode, a reference electrode and a temperature-compensating
device. It should be readable to 0.1pH in a range of 0 to 14.
Standard buffer solutions of at least pH 7 and pH 10 should be used for
calibration of the instrument before and after use.
Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature Measuring Equipment
9.5
The Dissolved Oxygen (DO) measuring
equipment should be portable and weatherproof. It should complete with cable
and senor, and a DC power source.
The equipment should be capable of measuring:
§
a DO level in the range of 0 - 20 mg∙L-1
and 0 - 200% saturation; and
§
a temperature of 0 - 45 degree Celsius (°C).
9.6
It should have a membrane electrode
with automatic temperature compensation complete with a cable.
9.7
Should salinity compensation not be
built-in to the DO equipment, in-situ salinity should be measured to calibrate
the DO measuring equipment prior to each DO measurement.
Turbidity Measurement Instrument
9.8
The turbidity measuring instrument
should be a portable and weatherproof using a DC power source. It should have a photoelectric sensor
capable of measuring turbidity between 0 - 1000 NTU (for example, Hach model 2100P or an approved similar instrument).
Sampler
9.9
A water sampler is required for SS
monitoring. It should comprise a
transparent PVC cylinder, with a capacity of not less than 2 litres, which can be effectively sealed with latex cups at
both ends. The sampler should have
a positive latching system to keep it open and prevent premature closure until
released by a messenger when the sampler is at the selected water depth (for
example, Kahlsico Water Sampler or an approved
similar instrument).
Water Depth Detector
9.10
A portable, battery-operated echo
sounder should be used for the determination of water depth at each monitoring
station. This unit can either be
hand-held or affixed to the bottom of the work boat, if the same vessel is to
be used throughout the monitoring programme.
Salinity
9.11
A portable salinometer
capable of measuring salinity in the range of 0 - 40 parts per thousand (ppt) should be provided for measuring salinity of the water
at each monitoring station.
Sample Containers and Storage
9.12
Water samples for SS monitoring should
be stored in high density polythene bottles with no preservative added, packed
in ice (cooled to 4 oC without being
frozen) and delivered to the laboratory and analyzed as soon as possible after
collection
Monitoring Position Equipment
9.13
A hand-held or boat-fixed type digital
Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) with way point bearing indication
and Radio Technical Commission for maritime (RTCM) Type 16 error message
‘screen pop-up’ facilities (for real-time auto-display of error messages and
DGPS corrections from the Hong Kong Hydrographic Office), or other equipment
instrument of similar accuracy, should be provided and used during marine water
monitoring to ensure the monitoring vessel at the correct location before
taking measurements.
Calibration of In-Situ Instruments
9.14
The pH meter, DO meter and turbidimeter shall be checked and calibrated before
use. DO meter and turbidimeter shall be certified by a laboratory accredited
under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation scheme, and subsequently
re-calibrated at 3 monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality
monitoring. Responses of sensors
and electrodes should be checked with certified standard solutions before each
use. Wet bulb calibration for a DO
meter shall be carried out before measurement at each monitoring location.
9.15
Sufficient stocks of spare parts shall
be maintained for replacements when necessary. Backup monitoring equipment shall also
be made available so that monitoring can proceed uninterrupted even when some
equipment are under maintenance, calibration, etc.
Laboratory Measurement / Analysis for Marine
Water
9.16
Duplicate samples from each independent
sampling event are required by EPD for all parameters. Analysis of suspended solids shall be
carried out in a HOKLAS or other international accredited laboratory. Sufficient water samples shall be
collected at the monitoring stations for carrying out the laboratory SS
determinations, with detection limit shown in Table 9.1.
The SS determination work shall start within 24 hours after collection
of the water samples. The analyses
shall follow the standard methods according to Table 9.1 and as described in “American Public
Health Association (APHA) Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater”, 19th edition, unless otherwise specified.
Table 9.1 Analytical
Methods to be applied to Marine Water Quality Samples
|
Determinant
|
Standard Method
|
Detection Limit
|
|
Suspended Solids (mg/L)
|
APHA 2540 D
|
0.1 mg/L
|
Marine
Water Monitoring Locations
9.17
Water quality monitoring will be
carried out at the representative water sensitive receivers (WSRs)
which are shown in Figure Nos. NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/030
to NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/032 and Table 9.2. Two control
stations, C1 and C2, outside the area of influence of the works are selected at
the east and the west of the Victoria
Harbour. The
status and location of WSRs may change after approval of this Manual. In such case, and if changes to the
monitoring locations are considered necessary, the ET should propose
alternative monitoring stations and seek approval from the ER and agreement
from the IEC and EPD on the proposal.
Table
9.2 Marine
Water Quality Stations for Baseline and Impact Monitoring
|
Identification No./
WSR ID in EIA Report
|
Description
|
Coordinates
|
|
Easting
|
Northing
|
|
8
|
Cooling Water Intake for Excelsior Hotel and World
Trade Centre / No. 27 – 63
Paterson Street
|
837036
|
816008
|
|
9
|
Cooling Water Intake for Windsor House
|
837223
|
816150
|
|
14
|
Flushing Water Intake for Kowloon Station
|
834477
|
817891
|
|
21
|
Cooling Water Intake for East Rail Extension
|
836484
|
817642
|
|
34
|
Cooling Water Intake for Metropolis
|
836828
|
817844
|
|
A
|
Wan Chai WSD Flushing Water Intake
|
836211
|
815913
|
|
WSD9
|
Tai Wan WSD Flushing
Water Intake
|
838133
|
817790
|
|
WSD17
|
Quarry Bay WSD Flushing
Water Intake
|
839863
|
817077
|
|
C1
|
Control Station 1
|
833977
|
817442
|
|
C2
|
Control Station 2
|
841088
|
817223
|
9.18
When alternative monitoring locations
are proposed, they shall be chosen based on the following criteria:
a)
at
locations close to and preferably at the boundary of the mixing zone of the
major site activities as indicated in the EIA final report, which are likely to
have water quality impacts;
b)
close
to the sensitive receptors which are directly or likely to be affected;
c)
for
monitoring locations located in the vicinity of the sensitive receptors, care
shall be taken to cause minimal disturbance during monitoring;
d)
two or more control stations which shall be at locations
representative of the project site in its undisturbed condition. Control
stations shall be located, as far as is practicable, both upstream and down stream of the works area.
9.19
Control stations are necessary to
compare the water quality from potentially impacted sites with the ambient
water quality. Control stations shall be located within the same body of water
as the impact monitoring stations but shall be outside the area of influence of
the works and, as far as practicable, not affected by any other works.
Baseline
Monitoring
9.20
Baseline conditions for marine water
quality should be established and agreed with EPD prior to the commencement of
dredging works or any major marine works.
The purpose of the baseline monitoring is to establish ambient
conditions prior to the commencement of the dredging works and to demonstrate
the suitability of the proposed monitoring stations.
9.21
The baseline conditions should be
established by measuring dissolved oxygen, turbidity and suspended solids
levels at the selected monitoring stations as shown in Figure Nos. NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/030 to NEX2213/C/331/ENS/M62/032. For
all monitoring stations at seawater intakes, it is recommended to conduct the monitoring
behind the silt screens and at the appropriate vertical levels of the
abstraction points of these intakes. For water quality monitoring at the
control stations, the monitoring should be carried out at 3 water depths,
namely, 1m below water surface, mid-depth and 1m above sea bed, except where
the water depth less than 6m, the mid-depth station may be omitted. Should the
water depth be less than 3m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored. The baseline monitoring schedule should
be submitted to EPD at least 2 weeks before commencement of monitoring for
agreement. EPD should also be notified immediately for any changes in schedule.
9.22
The measurements should be taken at
all designated monitoring stations, 3 days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb
tides, for at least 4 weeks prior to the commencement of dredging works. Any marine construction works should be
avoided in the vicinity of the stations during the baseline monitoring. The interval between 2 sets of
monitoring should not be less than 36 hours. Duplicate in-situ measurements and water
sampling should be carried out in each sampling event. For selection of tides for in-situ
measurement and water sampling, tidal range of individual flood and ebb tides
should be not less than 0.5 m.
Impact Monitoring
9.23
During the period of marine
construction works, monitoring should be undertaken three days per week, at
mid-flood and mid-ebb tides, with sampling/measurement at the designated
monitoring stations as shown in Table
9.3.
For all monitoring stations at seawater intakes, it is recommended to
conduct the monitoring behind the silt screens and at the appropriate vertical
levels of the abstraction points of these intakes. For water quality monitoring
at the control stations, the monitoring should be carried out at the surface,
middle and bottom water level. The
interval between two sets of monitoring should not be less than 36 hours except
where there are exceedances of Action and/or Limit
levels, in which case the monitoring frequency will be increased. Table
9.3 shows the proposed monitoring
frequency and water quality parameters.
Duplicate in-situ measurements and water sampling should be carried out
in each sampling event. For
selection of tides for in-situ measurement and water sampling, tidal range of
individual flood and ebb tides should be not less than 0.5 m.
The impact monitoring schedule for water quality should be submitted to EPD on
or before the first day of the monitoring month. EPD should also be notified
immediately for any changes in schedule.
Table 9.3 Proposed
Marine Water Quality Monitoring Frequency and Parameters
|
Activities
|
Monitoring Period
|
Monitoring
Frequency Note 1
|
Key Parameters
Note 2
|
|
Baseline Monitoring
|
At least 4 weeks prior to the commencement of
dredging / filling works
|
Three days per week, at mid-flood and
mid-ebb tides
|
Turbidity, SS, DO, pH, temperature,
salinity
|
|
Impact Monitoring
|
During dredging / filling works
|
Three days per week, at mid-flood and
mid-ebb tides
|
Turbidity, SS, DO, pH, temperature,
salinity
|
Notes:
1. For
selection of tides for in-situ
measurement and water sampling, tidal range of individual flood and ebb tides
should be not less than 0.5 m.
2. Turbidity,
DO, pH, temperature and salinity should be measured in situ whereas SS should
be determined by laboratory.
9.24
In order to avoid
aggravation of odour nuisance from seawater arising from temporary reclamation
in the CBTS, the DO levels at station ID Nos. 8 and 9 will
be monitored during the construction period, in the presence of temporary
reclamation in the CBTS under this Project. In case the temporary reclamation
works for this Project is found during the water quality monitoring and audit programme to cause unacceptable oxygen depletion (e.g. DO
level <2 mg/L) at station ID Nos. 8 and 9, remedial measures (e.g. use of
aeration method to improve the DO levels in the marine embayment) will be
considered and agreed by all current projects within the CBTS such as CWB and
WDII. The proposed remedial
measures will be implemented in the CBTS as necessary to improve the problems.
Post-project Monitoring
9.25
Upon completion of
all marine activities, a post project monitoring exercise on water quality
shall be carried out for four weeks in the same manner as the impact
monitoring.
Proposed Water Quality Monitoring Schedule
9.26
Proposed water
quality monitoring schedule shall be faxed to EPD on or before the first day of
the monitoring month. EPD shall also be notified immediately for any changes in
schedule by fax.
Field
Log
9.27
Other relevant data should also be
recorded, including monitoring location / position, time, water depth, sampling
depth, pH, salinity, DO saturation, DO, turbidity, water temperature, tidal
stages, weather conditions and any special phenomena
or work underway nearby.
9.28
A sample data record sheet is shown in
Appendix B3 for
reference.
Event
and Action Plan
9.29
The water quality monitoring criteria,
namely Action and Limit levels are shown in Table 9.4.
When exceedances of Action and Limit levels
are detected at any designated monitoring stations, remedial actions should be
taken in accordance with the Event and Action Plan in Table 9.5.
9.30
The ET Leader should assess the
potential impacts caused by dredging or filling works on the seawater intakes
based on the monitoring data.
Table
9.4 Action
and Limit Levels for Marine Water Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Parameters
|
Action
|
Limit
|
|
WSD Salt Water Intake
|
|
SS in mg∙L-1
|
95 percentile of
baseline data or >9.5 mg/L
|
99 percentile of
baseline data or >10 mg/L
|
|
Turbidity in NTU
|
95 percentile of
baseline data or >9.5 NTU
|
99 percentile of
baseline data or >10 NTU
|
|
DO in mg/L
|
5 percentile of
baseline data or <2.1 mg/L
|
1 percentile of
baseline data or <2 mg/L
|
|
Cooling Water
Intake
|
|
SS in mg∙L-1
|
95 percentile of
baseline data
|
99 percentile of
baseline data
|
|
Turbidity in NTU
|
95 percentile of
baseline data
|
99 percentile of
baseline data
|
|
DO in mg/L
|
5 percentile of
baseline data
|
1 percentile of
baseline data
|
Notes
1. It
is recommended to conduct the monitoring behind the silt screens, as far as practicable,
for monitoring stations with provision of silt screen and at the appropriate
vertical levels of the abstraction points of these intakes
2. For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when
monitoring result is lower than the limits.
3. For
turbidity and SS, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when
monitoring result is higher than the limits.
4. All
the figures given in the table are used for reference only and the EPD may
amend the figures whenever it is considered as necessary.
Table 9.5 Event
and Action Plan for Marine Water Quality Monitoring
|
EVENT
|
ACTION
|
|
ET
|
IEC
|
ER
|
CONTRACTOR
|
|
Action level being exceeded by one sampling
day
|
1.
Inform the Contractor, IEC and ER;
2.
Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and the
Contractor's working methods; and
3.
Discuss remedial measures with the IEC and Contractor.
|
1.
Discuss with the ET, ER and Contractor on the
implemented mitigation measures;
2.
Review proposals on remedial measures submitted by the
Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and
3.
Review and advise the ET and ER the effectiveness of
the implemented mitigation measures.
|
1.
Discuss with the ET, IEC and Contractor on the
implemented mitigation measures;
2.
Make agreement on the remedial measures to be
implemented; and
3.
Supervise the implementation of agreed remedial
measures.
|
1.
Identify source(s) of impact;
2.
Inform the ER and confirm notification of the
non-compliance in writing;
3.
Rectify unacceptable practice;
4.
Check all plant and equipment;
5.
Consider changes of working methods;
6.
Discuss with the ET, IEC and ER and propose remedial measures
to IEC and ER; and
7.
Implement the agreed remedial measures.
|
|
Action level being exceeded by more than
one consecutive sampling days
|
1.
Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings;
2.
Inform the Contractor, IEC and ER;
3.
Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and the
Contractor's working methods;
4.
Discuss remedial measures with the IEC and Contractor;
and
5.
Ensure remedial measures are implemented.
|
1.
Discuss with the ET, ER and Contractor on the
implemented mitigation measures;
2.
Review proposals on remedial measures submitted by the
Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and
3.
Review and advise the ET and ER the effectiveness of
the implemented remedial measures.
|
1.
Discuss with the ET, IEC and Contractor on the
implemented mitigation measures;
2.
Make agreement on the remedial measures to be
implemented; and
3.
Discuss with the ET and IEC on the effectiveness of the
implemented remedial measures.
|
1.
Identify source(s) of impact;
2.
Inform the ER and confirm notification of the
non-compliance in writing;
3.
Rectify unacceptable practice;
4.
Check all plant and equipment;
5.
Consider changes of working methods;
6.
Discuss with the ET, IEC and ER and propose remedial measures
to IEC and ER within 3 working days of notification; and
7.
Implement the agreed remedial measures.
|
|
Limit level being
exceeded by one sampling day
|
1.
Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings;
2.
Inform the Contractor, IEC, EPD and ER;
3.
Rectify unacceptable practice;
4.
Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and the
Contractor’s working methods;
5.
Discuss with the ET and IEC and propose remedial measures
to the IEC, EPD and ER; and
6.
Ensure the agreed remedial measures are implemented.
|
1.
Discuss with the ET, ER and Contractor on the
implemented mitigation measures;
2.
Review proposals on remedial measures submitted by
Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and
3.
Review and advise the ET and ER the effectiveness of
the implemented remedial measures.
|
1.
Discuss with the ET, IEC and Contractor on the
implemented mitigation measures;
2.
Request the Contractor to critically review the working
methods;
3.
Make agreement on the remedial measures to be
implemented; and
4.
Assess the effectiveness of the implemented remedial
measures.
|
1.
Inform the ER and confirm notification of the
non-compliance in writing;
2.
Rectify unacceptable practice;
3.
Check all plant and equipment;
4.
Consider changes of working methods;
5.
Discuss with ET , IEC and ER and propose remedial
measures to IEC and ER within 3 working days of notification; and
6.
Implement the agreed remedial measures.
|
|
Limit level being exceeded by more than one
consecutive sampling days
|
1.
Inform the Contractor, IEC, EPD and ER;
2.
Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and the
Contractor's working methods;
3.
Discuss remedial measures with the the
IEC, EPD, ER and Contractor;
4.
Ensure remedial measures are implemented; and
5.
Increase the monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance of Limit level for two consecutive days.
|
1.
Discuss with the ET, ER and Contractor on the
implemented measures;
2.
Review proposals on remedial measures submitted by the
Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and
3.
Review and advise the ET and ER the effectiveness of
the implemented remedial measures.
|
1.
Discuss with the ET, IEC and Contractor on the
implemented mitigation measures;
2.
Request the Contractor to critically review the working
methods;
3.
Make agreement on the remedial measures to be
implemented;
4.
Discuss with the the ET, IEC
and Contractor on the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures; and
5.
Consider and instruct, if necessary, the Contractor to
slow down or to stop all or part of the marine work until no exceedance of Limit level.
|
1.
Identify source(s) of impact;
2.
Inform the ER and confirm notification of the
non-compliance in writing;
3.
Rectify unacceptable practice;
4.
Check all plant and equipment;
5.
Consider changes of working methods;
6.
Discuss with the ET, IEC and ER and propose remedial measures
to IEC and ER within 3 working days of notification;
7.
Implement the agreed remedial measures; and
8.
As directed by the ER, to slow down or to stop all or part
of the marine works or construction activities.
|
9.31
If monitoring results indicate that
the dredging or filling works have caused an adverse impact on water quality at
the WSD saltwater intakes or cooling water intakes, it is recommended that the
Contractor should inform WSD and the owners of cooling water intakes. The ER should inform WSD immediately if
an adverse impact on water quality has been caused or the ET should notify WSD
the monitoring results reach the Limit level at the WSD saltwater intakes. Remedial measures should be recommended
to rectify the non-compliance or the construction programme
should be carefully reviewed to slow down the rate of dredging or filling.
Mitigation
Measures
9.32
Mitigation measures for water quality
control have been recommended in the EIA Report. The Contractor should be responsible for
the design and implementation of these measures.
9.33
Recommended mitigation measures to
minimize the adverse impacts on water quality during the proposed dredging and
filling works are listed in the implementation schedule given in Appendix A.
9.34
The requirements of the environmental
audit programme are set out in Section 13 of this Manual.
The audit programme will verify the
implementation status and evaluate the effectiveness of the mitigation
measures.
Regular Maintenance of Silt Screens and Silt Curtains
9.35
Silt screens are recommended to be
deployed at selected WSD flushing water intakes during the dredging and filling
operation. The operation of the
flushing water intakes would not be adversely affected by the silt screens
provided that the silt screens are properly designed and maintained. Installation of silt screens at the
selected flushing water intake points shall be implemented by the Contractor
for the dredging and filling works.
The Contractor shall demonstrate and ensure that the design of the silt
screen will not affect the normal operation of flushing water intake. The Contractor shall obtain consensus
from all relevant parties, including WSD and Marine Department, on the design
of the silt screen at each of the selected flushing water intake points before
installation of the silt screen and commencement of the proposed dredging /
filling works. The water quality
audits shall be jointly undertaken by the Contractor, ET and ER to ensure that
the proposed works do not result in unacceptable impacts at the WSD flushing
water intakes.
9.36
As a mitigation measure to avoid the
pollutant and refuse entrapment problems and to ensure that the impact
monitoring results are representative, regular maintenance of the silt screens,
silt curtains and refuse collection should be performed by the Contractor at
the silt screens at regular intervals on a daily basis. The Contractor should be responsible for
keeping the water behind the silt screens and silt curtains free from floating
rubbish and debris before the silt screens and silt curtains are removed.
Introduction
10.1
Construction and Demolition (C&D)
materials,
sediment, general refuse from workforce and chemical waste would be generated during
the construction phase. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to ensure all the
waste arisen from the Project are handled, stored and disposed of in accordance
with good waste management practices, relevant legislation and waste management
guidelines. Provided that these wastes are handled, transported and disposed of
using approved methods and that the recommended good site practices are
strictly followed, adverse environmental impacts would not be expected.
10.2
Large
quantities of waste are not expected to be generated from the operation of the
Project and no adverse environmental impacts will arise with the implementation
of good waste management practices. Therefore, an audit programme
for the operation phase of the Project will not be required.
Audit
Requirement
10.3
Regular
audits and site inspections should be carried out during construction phase by
the ER, ET and Contractor to ensure that the recommended good site practices
and the recommended mitigation measures in Appendix A are
properly implemented by the Contractor. The audits should concern all aspects
of on-site waste management practices including waste generation, storage,
recycling, transport and disposal.
Apart from site inspection, documents including licences,
permits, disposal and recycling records should be reviewed and audited for
compliance with the legislation and contract requirements.
10.4
The
requirements of the environmental audit programme are
set out in Section 13 of this
Manual. The audit programme will verify the implementation status and
evaluate the effectiveness of the mitigation measures.
Mitigation Measures
10.5
The mitigation measures recommended in
EIA Report should form the basis of the site Waste Management Plan (WMP) to be
developed by the Contractor during the construction stage.
10.6
It is recommended that the waste
generated during the construction activities should be audited regularly by the
ET to determine if wastes are being managed in accordance with approved
procedures and the site WMP. The
audit should look at all aspects of on-site waste management practices
including waste generation, storage, recycling, transport and disposal. Apart from site inspection, documents
including licences, permits, disposal and recycling
records should be reviewed and audited for compliance with the legislation and
contract requirements. In addition,
the routine site inspections should check the implementation of the recommended
good site practices and other waste management mitigation measures.
10.7
With
the appropriate handling, storage and disposal of waste arising from the
construction works as recommended in Appendix A,
the potential of adverse environmental impacts would be minimized. During the site inspections, the ET
should pay special attention to the issues relating to waste management and
check whether the Contractor has implemented the recommended good site
practices and mitigation measures.
Introduction
11.1
The
land contamination assessment has examined the potential contaminating land
uses within the Project area and investigated the potential impacts of the contamination
on future use. Based on the findings from the Stage 1 site investigation (SI),
no adverse impacts have been identified within the Project area. No specific EM&A requirement is
therefore required. Nevertheless, visual inspection is
recommended as best practice during construction activities that disturb soil.
11.2
Due
to current land use and site constraints, a site investigation was not
conducted for one area within the Project works area during the Stage 1 SI.
This area would be investigated in conjunction with the Stage 2 site
investigation, which is due to be undertaken after decommissioning of existing
buildings and access has been granted.
Recommended precautionary measures in Appendix A
shall be reference if site remediation is required. The potential
contamination (if any found) at the sites due to be investigated during the
Stage 2 SI would be expected to be surmountable, with the proposed mitigation
measures.
Mitigation Measures
11.3
Mitigation
measures for land contamination have been recommended in the EIA Report. The Contractor should be responsible for
the design and implementation of these measures. The implementation schedule of
the recommended land contamination mitigation measures is presented in Appendix A
.
Introduction
12.1
Blasting
will be carried for the overrun tunnel in Admiralty and underwater blasting may
be required in Victoria
Harbour
when bedrock or large boulder are encountered during the construction of the
IMT tunnels. Mines Division will be
responsible for delivering explosives directly to works areas for the rock
excavation of the ADM Overrun Tunnel. The transportation of explosives by Mines
Division directly to sites is under Mines Division’s responsibility and falls
outside the scope of this Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Regarding the
marine transportation of explosives by the contractor, the blasting activities
should be supervised and audited by the competent site staff to ensure strict
compliance with the blasting permit conditions..
Mitigation Measures
12.2
The
recommended mitigation measures as presented in Appendix A
of this EM&A Manual should be implemented to meet the EIAO-TM
requirements.
Site Inspection
13.1
Site inspection is
one of the most effective tools to enforce the environmental protection
requirements at the works area by providing a direct mean to trigger and
enforce specified environmental protection and pollution control measures. Site inspection should be undertaken
regularly during the construction phase to ensure that appropriate
environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures are properly
implemented for the activities associated with the Project.
13.2
The ET Leader should
be responsible for formulating the environmental site inspection programme as
well as the deficiency and remedial action reporting system, and for carrying
out the site inspections. The
proposal for rectification, if any, should be prepared and submitted to the ET
Leader and IEC by the Contractor.
13.3
Regular
site inspections should be carried out and led by the
ER and attended by the Contractor and ET at least once per week during the
construction phase. The areas of inspection should not be limited to the
environmental conditions and the pollution control and mitigation measures
within the works area, it should also review the environmental conditions of
locations that are beyond the boundary of the works area but are likely to be
affected directly or indirectly by the construction site activities of the
Project. During the inspection, the following information should be
referred to:
§ The EIA Report and EM&A recommendations on environmental protection
and pollution control mitigation measures;
§
Ongoing results of
the EM&A programme;
§
Works progress and
programme;
§
Individual works
methodology proposals (which should include the proposal on associated
pollution control measures);
§
Contract
specifications on environmental protection and pollution prevention control;
§
Relevant
environmental protection and pollution control legislations; and
§
Previous site
inspection results undertaken by the ET and others.
13.4
The
Contractor should keep the ER and ET Leader updated with all relevant
environmental related information on the construction contract necessary for
him/her to carry out the site inspections. Site inspection results and
associated recommendations for improvements to the environmental protection and
pollution control efforts should be recorded and followed up by the Contractor
in an agreed time-frame. The Contractor should follow the procedures and
time-frame stipulated in the environmental site inspection, and the deficiency
and remedial action reporting system to be formulated by the ET Leader, to
report on any remedial measures subsequent to the site inspections.
13.5
The
ER, ET and the Contractor should also carry out ad hoc site inspections if
significant environmental problems are identified. Inspections may also
be required subsequent to receipt of an environmental complaint, or as part of
the investigation work, as specified in the Event and Action Plan for the
EM&A programme.
Environmental
Compliance
13.6
There
are statuary requirements on environmental protection
and pollution control with which construction activities must comply.
13.7
To
ensure that the works are in compliance with all method statements of works
should be submitted by the Contractor to the ER for approval and to the ET
Leader for vetting to determine if sufficient environmental protection and
pollution control measures have been included. The implementation
schedule of mitigation measures is summarized in Appendix A.
Any proposed changes to the mitigation measures in Appendix A
shall be certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC as conforming to
the relevant information and recommendations contained in the EIA Report.
13.8
The
ER and ET Leader should also review the progress and programme
of the works to check that relevant environmental legislations have not been
violated, and that any foreseeable potential for violating laws can be
prevented.
13.9
The
Contractor should provide the update of the relevant documents to the ET Leader
so that works checking could be carried out effectively. The document
should at least include the updated Works Progress Reports, updated Works
Programme, method statements, any application letters for licences
/ permits under the environmental protection legislations, and copies of all
valid licences / permits. The site diary should
also be available for the inspection by the relevant parties.
13.10 After reviewing the
documentation, the ET Leader should advise the Contractor of any non-compliance
with legislative requirements on environmental protection and pollution control
so that they can timely take follow-up actions as appropriate. If the follow-up actions may still
result in violation of environmental protection and pollution control
requirements, the ER and ET should provide further advice to the Contractor to
take remedial action to resolve the problem.
13.11 Upon receipt of the
advice, the Contractor should undertake immediate action to remedy the
situation. The ER and ET should follow up to ensure that appropriate
action has been taken in order to satisfy legal requirements.
Choice of Construction Method
13.12
At
times during the construction phase the Contractor may submit method statements
for various aspects of construction. This state of affairs would only apply to
those construction methods that the EIA has not imposed conditions while for
construction methods that have been assessed in the EIA, the Contractor is
bound to follow the requirements and recommendations in the EIA study. The
Contractor’s options for alternative construction methods may introduce adverse
environmental impacts into the Project. It is the responsibility of the
Contractor and ET, in accordance with established standards, guidelines and EIA
study recommendations and requirements, to review and determine the adequacy of
the environmental protection and pollution control measures in the Contractor’s
proposal in order to ensure no unacceptable impacts would result. To achieve
this end, the ET shall provide a copy of the Proactive Environmental Protection
Proforma as shown in Appendix B4 to the IEC for
approval. The IEC should audit the review of the construction method and
endorse the proposal on the basis of no adverse environmental impacts.
Environmental Complaints
13.13
The
following procedures should be undertaken upon receipt of any environmental
complaint:
i. The Contractor to log complaint and date of receipt onto the complaint database and inform
the ER, ET and IEC immediately;
ii. The Contractor to investigate, with the ER and ET, the complaint to
determine its validity, and assess whether the source of the problem is due to
construction works of the Project with the support
of additional monitoring frequency and stations, if necessary;
iii. The Contractor to identify remedial measures in consultation with the
IEC, ET and ER if a complaint is valid and due to the construction works of the
Project;
iv. The Contractor to implement the remedial measures as required by
the ER and to agree with the ET and IEC any additional monitoring frequency and
stations, where necessary, for checking the effectiveness of the remedial
measures;
v. The ER, ET and IEC to review the effectiveness of the Contractor's remedial measures and the updated situation;
vi. The ET/Contractor to undertake additional monitoring and audit to verify the situation if
necessary, and oversee that circumstances leading to the complaint do not recur;
vii. If the complaint is referred by the EPD, the Contractor to prepare
interim report on the status of the complaint investigation and follow-up
action stipulated above, including the details of the
remedial measures and additional monitoring identified or already taken, for submission to EPD within the time frame assigned by the EPD; and
viii. The ET to record the details of the complaint,
results of the investigation,
subsequent actions taken to address the complaint and updated situation
including the effectiveness of the remedial measures, supported by regular and
additional monitoring results in the monthly
EM&A reports.
Introduction
14.1
Types of reports that the ET should prepare and submit include Baseline
Monitoring Report, Monthly EM&A Reports and Final EM&A
Review Report. In accordance with
Annex 21 of the EIAO-TM, a copy of the monthly and final review EM&A
reports should be made available to the Director of Environmental Protection.
14.2
Reports can be provided in an electronic medium upon agreeing the
format with the ER and EPD. All the
monitoring data (baseline and impact) should be submitted in electronic
medium. Sample data sheets for
noise, air quality and water quality monitoring are shown in Appendices B1
to B3.
Baseline Monitoring Report
14.3
The ET should prepare and submit a Baseline Environmental Monitoring
Report (excluding water quality) at least one month before
commencement of construction of the Project.
Baseline Monitoring Report for water quality should be prepared and
submitted at least one month before the commencement of dredging and filling
works for the Project. Copies of the Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report
should be submitted to the IEC, ER and EPD. The ET should liaise with the relevant
parties on the exact number of copies require.
14.4
The Baseline Monitoring Report should include at least the following
information:
(i) up to half a page of executive summary;
(ii) brief description of project background information;
(iii) drawings showing locations of the baseline monitoring
stations;
(iv) monitoring results (in both hard and diskette copies)
together with the following information:
Ÿ
monitoring
methodology
Ÿ
name
of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details
Ÿ
parameters
monitored
Ÿ
monitoring
locations (and depth)
Ÿ
monitoring
date, time, frequency and duration
Ÿ
QA/QC
results and detection limits
(v) details of influencing factors, including:
Ÿ
major activities, if any, being
carried out on the Project site during the period
Ÿ
weather
conditions during the period
Ÿ
other
factors which might affect the
monitoring results
(vi) determination of the Action and Limit Levels (AL levels) for each
monitoring parameter and statistical analysis of the baseline data;
(vii) revisions
for inclusion in the EM&A Manual; and
(viii) comments
and conclusions.
Monthly EM&A Reports
14.5
The results and findings of all EM&A works required in this Manual
should be recorded in the monthly EM&A reports prepared by the ET and
endorsed by the IEC. The first
Monthly EM&A Report should be prepared and submitted to EPD within a month
after the major construction works commences with the subsequently Monthly
EM&A Reports due in 10 works days of the end of each reporting month. Copies of each monthly EM&A report
should be submitted to each of the three parties: ER, IEC and EPD. Before submission of the first monthly
EM&A Report, the ET should liaise with the parties on the exact number of
copies and format of the monthly reports in both hard copy and electronic
copies.
14.6
The ET Leader should review the number and location of monitoring
stations and parameters every six months, or on as needed basis, in order to
cater for any changes in the surrounding environment and the nature of works in
progress.
First Monthly EM&A Report
14.7
The first Monthly EM&A Report should include at least but not
limited to the following:
(i) executive summary (1-2 pages):
Ÿ
breaches
of Action and Limit levels;
Ÿ
complaint
log;
Ÿ
notifications
of any summons and successful prosecutions;
Ÿ
reporting
changes; and
Ÿ
future key issues.
(ii) basic project information:
Ÿ
project
organization including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers;
Ÿ
construction
programme;
Ÿ
management
structure; and
Ÿ
works undertaken during the reporting
month.
(iii) environmental status:
Ÿ
advice
on the status of statutory environmental compliance, such as the status of
compliance with the EP conditions under the EIAO, submission status under the
EP and implementation status of mitigation measures;
Ÿ
works
undertaken during the reporting month with illustrations (e.g. location of
works, etc); and
Ÿ
drawings showing the Project area, any
environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring stations.
(iv) summary of EM&A requirements:
Ÿ
all
monitoring parameters;
Ÿ
environmental
quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);
Ÿ
Event
and Action Plans;
Ÿ
environmental
mitigation measures, as recommended in the EIA Report; and
Ÿ
environmental requirements in
contract documents.
(v) implementation status:
Ÿ
advice on the implementation status of
environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures as
recommended in the EIA Report.
(vi) monitoring results (in both hard and diskette copies)
together with the following information:
Ÿ
monitoring
methodology;
Ÿ
name
of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;
Ÿ
monitoring
parameters;
Ÿ
monitoring
locations;
Ÿ
monitoring
date, time, frequency and duration;
Ÿ
graphical
plots of the monitoring parameters in the reporting month annotated against the
following;
(a) major activities being carried out on site during the
reporting period;
(b) weather conditions during the reporting period;
(c) any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;
and
(d) QA/QC results and
detection limits.
(vii) report
on non-compliance, complaints, notifications of summons and status of
prosecutions:
Ÿ record of all non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality
performance limits (Action and Limit levels);
Ÿ
record
of all complaints received (written or verbal), including locations and nature
of complaints investigation, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and
follow-up procedures taken, results and summary;
Ÿ
record
of all notification of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of
current environmental protection / pollution control legislation, including
locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken,
results and summary;
Ÿ
review
of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliances, complaints, summons
and prosecutions including review of pollution sources and working procedures;
and
Ÿ
description of the actions taken
in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting and any follow-up
procedures related to earlier non-compliance.
(viii) others:
Ÿ an account of the future key issues as reviewed from the works programme
and method statements of works;
Ÿ
advice
on the solid and liquid waste management status;
Ÿ a forecast of the works programme, impact predictions and monitoring
schedule for the next three months;
Ÿ
compare
the EM&A data in the reporting month with the EIA predictions and annotate
with explanation for any discrepancies;
Ÿ
record
of any project changes from that originally proposed as described in the EIA
(e.g. construction methods, mitigation proposals, design changes, etc); and
Ÿ
comments (e.g. the effectiveness and
efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (for example, any
improvement in the EM&A programme) and
conclusions.
Subsequent
Monthly EM&A Reports
14.8
Subsequent monthly EM&A Reports during the construction phase
should include the following information:
(i) executive summary (1-2 pages):
Ÿ
breaches
of Action and Limit levels;
Ÿ
complaint
log;
Ÿ
notifications
of any summons and successful prosecutions;
Ÿ
reporting
changes; and
Ÿ
future key issues.
(ii) basic project Information:
Ÿ
project
organization including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers;
Ÿ
construction
programme;
Ÿ
management
structure;
Ÿ
works
undertaken during the reporting month; and
Ÿ
any updates as needed to the scope of works, and
construction methodologies.
(iii) environmental status:
Ÿ
advice
on the status of statutory environmental compliance, the status of compliance
with the EP conditions under the EIAO, submission status under the EP and
implementation status of mitigation measures;
Ÿ
works
undertaken during the reporting month with illustrations (such as location of
works, etc); and
Ÿ
drawings showing the Project area, any
environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring stations.
(vi) implementation status:
Ÿ
advice on the implementation status of
environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures as
recommended in the EIA Report.
(v) monitoring results (in both hard and diskette copies)
together with the following information:
Ÿ
monitoring
methodology;
Ÿ
name
of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;
Ÿ
monitoring
parameters;
Ÿ
monitoring
locations (and depth);
Ÿ
monitoring
date, time, frequency and duration;
Ÿ
graphical
plots of the monitoring parameters in the reporting month annotated against the
following;
(a) major activities being carried out on site during the
reporting period;
(b) weather conditions during the reporting period;
(c) any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;
and
(d) QA/QC results and
detection limits.
(vi) report on non-compliance, complaints, notifications of
summons and status of prosecutions:
Ÿ record of all non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality
performance limits (Action and Limit levels);
Ÿ
record
of all complaints received (written or verbal), including the locations and
nature of complaints investigation, liaison and consultation undertaken,
actions and follow-up procedures taken, results and summary;
Ÿ
record
of all notification of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of
current environmental protection / pollution control legislation, including
locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken,
results and summary;
Ÿ
review
of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance, complaints, summons
and prosecutions including review of pollution sources and working procedures;
and
Ÿ
descriptions of the actions taken
in the event of non-compliances and deficiency reporting and any follow-up
procedures related to earlier non-compliance.
(vii) others:
Ÿ an account of the future key issues as reviewed from the works programme
and method statements of works;
Ÿ
advice
on the solid and liquid waste management status;
Ÿ A forecast of the works programme, impact predictions and monitoring
schedule for the next three months;
Ÿ
compare
the EM&A data in the reporting month with the EIA predictions and annotate
with explanation for any discrepancies;
Ÿ
record
of any project changes from that originally proposed as described in the EIA
(e.g. construction methods, mitigation proposals, design changes, etc); and
Ÿ
comments (e.g.. the effectiveness and
efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (for example, any
improvement in the EM&A programme) and
conclusions.
(viii) appendix:
Ÿ Action and Limit levels;
Ÿ graphical plots of trends of the monitoring parameters over the past four reporting
periods for the representative monitoring stations annotated against the
following:
(a) major Project activities being carried out on site during
the reporting period;
(b) weather conditions during the reporting period; and
(c) any other factors that might affect the monitoring results.
Ÿ
monitoring
schedule for the present and next reporting period;
Ÿ
cumulative
statistics on complaints, notifications of summons and successful prosecutions;
Ÿ
outstanding issues and
deficiencies.
Final EM&A Review Report - Construction
Phase
14.9
The EM&A program (including the post-project monitoring described
in Section 9.25) should be terminated upon completion of those
construction activities that have the potential to result in a significant
environmental impact.
14.10
Prior to the proposed termination, the proposed termination should be
implemented after the proposal has been endorsed by the IEC, the Engineer and
the Project Proponent followed by final approval from the Director of
Environmental Protection.
14.11
The ET Leader should prepare and submit the Final EM&A Report which
should contain at least the following information:
(i) executive summary (1 - 2 pages);
(ii) drawings showing the Project area, environmental sensitive
receivers and locations of the monitoring stations;
(iii) basic project information including a synopsis of the
project organisation, contacts of key management, and a synopsis of works
undertaken during the course of the Project;
(iv) a brief summary of EM&A requirements including:
Ÿ environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the EIA Report;
Ÿ
environmental
impact hypotheses tested;
Ÿ
environmental
quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);
Ÿ
all
monitoring parameters; and
Ÿ
Event
and Action Plans;
(v) a summary
of the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control
/ mitigation measures, as recommended in the EIA Report, summarised in the
updated implementation schedule;
(vi) graphical plots and the statistical analysis of the trends
of monitoring parameters over the course of the Project, including the
post-project monitoring for all monitoring stations annotated against:
Ÿ the major activities being carried out on site during the reporting
period;
Ÿ
weather
conditions during the reporting period; and
Ÿ
any
other factors which might affect the monitoring results;
(vii) a
summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the
environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);
(viii) a
review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including
review of pollution sources and working procedures as appropriate;
(ix) a description of the actions taken in the event of
non-compliance;
(x) a summary record of all complaints received (written or
verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and
follow-up procedures taken;
(xi) a summary record
of notifications of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of the
current environmental protection / pollution control legislation, locations and
nature of the breaches, investigation follow-up actions taken and results;
(xii) a
review of the validity of EIA predictions and identification of shortcomings of
the recommendations proposed in EIA Report; and
(xiii) comments
(for example, a review of the effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation
measures and of the performance of the environmental management system, that
is, of the overall EM&A programme);
(xiv) recommendations
and conclusions (for example, a review of success of the overall EM&A
programme to cost-effectively identify deterioration and to initiate prompt
effective mitigation action when necessary).
Data Keeping
14.12
No site-based documents (such as monitoring field records, laboratory
analysis records, site inspection forms, etc.) are required to be included in
the EM&A reporting documents. However, any such document should be properly
maintained by the ET and be ready for inspection upon request. All
relevant information should be clearly and systematically recorded in the
document. Monitoring data should also be recorded in magnetic media form,
and the software copy must be available upon request. All documents and data
should be kept for at least one year following the completion of the
construction phase EM&A for each construction
contract.
Interim Notifications of Environmental Quality Limit Exceedances
14.13
With reference to the Event and Action Plans, when the environmental
quality performance limits are exceeded and if they are proven to be valid, the
ET should immediately notify the IEC and EPD, as appropriate. The notification should be followed up
with advice to the IEC and EPD on the results of the investigation, proposed
actions and success of the actions taken, with any necessary follow-up
proposals. A sample template for
the interim notification is presented in Appendix C.
